San Juan, TX -
Maria Elena Saenz, (68), from Donna, Texas, entered Heaven’s gates on August 23, 2020. Proudly retired from the Texas Department of Public Safety after working over 20 plus years, she will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Mary was a devoted daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Mary is preceded in death by her mother, Maria De Los Angeles Cardona Hernandez, her sister Hortencia Gil, and her brother Alfredo Hernandez.
She is survived by her father, Jose Wenseslao Hernandez, her three children—Veronica (Manuel) Munoz of Pasadena, Annette Saenz of Alamo, and Francisco Jose (Brandie) Saenz of Kyle. Maria leaves behind six fantastic grandchildren—Britney Nicole Zuniga, Aaliyah Jo Saenz, Arielle Nicole Gonzalez, Dominick Aric Saenz, Jordan Preseis Saenz, and Layloni Ellen Saenz. Also surviving are her two sisters—Frances Gomez of Sugarland, Tx and Connie (Rob) Racz of Taylor, Michigan; as well as five brothers—Noe (Carolina) Hernandez of San Antonio, Tx, Juan (Mari†) Hernandez of Edinburg, Tx; Mando Hernandez of Houston, Tx; Javier (Bernadette) Hernandez of Crosby, Tx; and David (Yvette) of Big Spring, Tx. along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Maria Elena Saenz impacted the lives of everyone she knew. She remembered everyone’s birthday and would send a card to make them feel special or be at their side in a time of need. On special events, she would go out of her way to take you cookies, help with decorations, or assist with serving food in any celebrations. When she worked for the Department of Public Safety, Mary would ensure that the office was decorated for every single holiday. Her smile and character brought a little bit of sunshine to every coworker’s day. She befriended most, if not, all of her coworkers giving a whole new meaning to the word “friendship” with her generosity and desire to put others before herself.
Mary was the most devoted mother, first and foremost. She treasured her children with all her heart and soul as well as her grandchildren. They were her number one priority, and there was not a time in their lives that she was not readily available to assist them. She showered them with immense love and support as not only their mother, but also a best friend.
Mary will be deeply missed but never forgotten as she receives her wings today. Rest in peace our sweet angel, and remember, this is not goodbye. Someday we will all be reunited in Heaven running into your open arms once again.
We would like to thank each and everyone of you for all your support and prayers during this difficult time and appreciate how you enriched our mother’s life with great kindness and friendship.
Funeral services are under the direction of Hawkins Funeral Home of Donna.
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